Greg Lauren to unveil ‘Alteration at Colette’ during Men’s Paris Fashion Week
“Two and a half years ago, I learned to sew in order to create, ‘Alteration,’ an installation of paper sculptures of the most iconic, powerful menswear garments, hand sewn from paper I used in my paintings. Through paper sculptures I wanted to celebrate and question the clothing I had loved and examine the traditional archetypes. Image is powerful and potent, but ultimately, paper thin.”
For ‘Alteration at Colette,’ the acclaimed artist, Greg Lauren will continue his ongoing exploration of personal identity and its relationship to clothing at the renowned fashion boutique in Paris. The installation serves to further define the evolution from paper sculptures based on iconic menswear garments, to wearable pieces, which make up the Greg Lauren Collection.
‘Alteration at Colette,’ will consist of 14 standing paper sculptures, including, “The Marine,” “Charcoal DB,” “White DB Dinner Jacket” and “The Boxer.” Collectively these pieces represent the classic male archetypes, most recognized by society. “For the installation, I have created sculptures with a greater sense of irony, such as Peacock” explains Lauren, ”a three piece suit in white paper covered in multiple pocket squares and The Man of Steel, a classic peak lapel suit made entirely from vintage Superman comics.”
Each sculpture is painstakingly hand-sewn using Japanese paper in true-to-scale uniforms, suits, shirts and shoes among other carefully crafted accessories. “Every piece is made with the same approach as if were done by a real tailor, seamstress and shoemaker..” Says Lauren. “I manipulate the paper medium to simulate various materials, such as wool, cotton and gabardine and create frayed edges, creases and folds to give visual authenticity to the garment.”
The ‘Alteration at Colette’, sculptures will be displayed within the Gallery at Colette, and select pieces will be integrated throughout the shop floor. In addition, Lauren will showcase accessory sculptures on a designated gallery wall, which includes ties, hats, shoes and bags crafted from hand-worked paper.
The Installation will also feature a select group of one-of-a-kind wearable pieces that translate the classic silhouettes first explored in paper, and now created using repurposed fabrics which form part of the Greg Lauren Collection. “These specific pieces were created to reflect an ironic twist on the iconic classics.” Explains Lauren. The “Destroyed Washed Tux Jacket,” “Duffle Bag Jacket” and “Destroyed Cary” pinstripe jacket are just a few pieces that will be on display, highlighting the seamless continuity from paper to fabric.
“It is an honor to work with Colette and I am thankful for the opportunity to chart my artistic journey in such a unique way.” Explains Lauren.
‘Alteration at Colette’ will open officially to the public on January 9th 2012.
